Cancer fundraiser gets hot and hairy

JARROD Houben had hoped to raise $900 for cancer patients by the time the scissors chopped through his blond locks for the World’s Greatest Shave next week.

But by Monday this week, the nine-year-old St James’ student had already exceeded his target and raised more than $940 as he prepares for the final rundown to his year-long project to raise awareness for the cancer cause.

“I feel sad that kids get sick and I want to help,” Jarrod said.

“I have been growing my hair for three months and it’s hot, thick and sweaty, but it’s not as bad as having cancer.”

Jarrod’s mother Mel Houben said her son had wanted to commit to the cause – which supports Aussies with blood cancer and funds research – last year but had missed out, making him more determined to help out as much as he could this year.

“I registered him about a month ago and everyone has gotten behind it, which is really nice,” she said.

Mrs Houben said Jarrod had engaged the St James’ school community which has a big day planned for when Jarrod steps out to lose his locks on Monday, March 7.

They have also secured the support of Titans player and former student Luke O’Dwyer, whose brother tragically died of leukaemia some years ago.

“The school is throwing a big day and will donate all funds from the day to Shave for a Cure,” Mrs Houben said.

“Kids will do crazy hair all day and there will be a barbecue and a coffee van and we are trying to get the whole community behind it.”

SHAVE FOR A CURE

When: Monday, March 7, 3.45pm (NSW)

Where: St James Primary, Banora Point

Donate: To support Jarrod go to https://secure.leukaemia foundation.org.au and search Jarrod’s name.